What do you think about the portrayal of people with autism in the media? Is it harmful or does it raise awareness?

Hi everyone,

The term autism, while a well-known condition, is not always well understood by society... even less understood is the term Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).  However, ASD has been portrayed in cinema in many movies and, like many other things, people have become familiar with ASD through the way it was presented and depicted in movies and television. And, as with many cinema attempts, there are both good and bad portrayals of real life situations and conditions, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Here are some famous movies and tv shows that center the story around an individual with ASD or have ASD play an important role in the story: Rain Man, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, My Name Is Khan, Miracle Run, Fly Away, Jack of the Red Hearts, the Story of Luke, Adam, Atypical, and The Good Doctor.

What are your thoughts of autism portrayed in cinema? Share your thoughts.

Do you think these movies and shows do more good than harm in terms of raising awareness?

Do you think cinema accurately portrays the Autism Spectrum Disorders?

Any particular movies or tv shows around Autism Spectrum Disorder that you enjoyed or currently enjoy?